The Lord Mayor of Chester officially opened the fifth festival of Diwali in Chester on Saturday, October 11.

This is the fifth year that the Hindu festival of lights has been celebrated in the city, organised by the Sanjhi Indian Association and supported by Cheshire West and Chester Council and an Awards For All lottery grant.

The colourful parade left Town Hall Square at noon, winding through the city centre streets with a traditional Indian dance display taking place on Eastgate Street.

Leader of the council Mike Jones and city MP Stephen Mosley MP also joined the celebrations, with an attempt at dancing.

The parade continued down Watergate Street, with dancers encouraging onlookers to join in with stick dances, to the Guildhall, where there were free workshops making rangoli Diwali art cards, diya Indian candles, peacock art, henna hand painting, Indian head massage, face painting and Indian food tasting.

Chairman of Sanjhi Indian Association Sarika Kaushik said: “Diwali is generally described as a Hindu festival and it is truly an Indian festival that cuts across religions and different beliefs.

“It is an international festival that is celebrated across the world.

“We feel proud that we have been able to bring it to Cheshire and that the Chester Diwali parade is becoming an established annual event, a welcome addition to the cultural richness of the city.”

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The Sanjhi Indian Association runs regular Indian dance classes in Hoole Community Centre every Sunday from 3-5pm. It is suitable for all age groups and everyone is welcome to attend.